The Sicario movie franchise, known for its gritty realism and morally ambiguous characters, currently consists of two main installments: Sicario (2015) and Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018). While a third film has been discussed, it remains unconfirmed, leaving the series at its existing duology.
The Sicario Universe: A Deep Dive
Denis Villeneuve’s Sicario exploded onto the scene, offering a visceral and unflinching look at the war on drugs along the US-Mexico border. The film garnered critical acclaim for its direction, cinematography, and performances. Following its success, a sequel, Sicario: Day of the Soldado, expanded the universe, focusing on different facets of the conflict and further developing the characters of Matt Graver and Alejandro Gillick.
Examining the Existing Films
Sicario (2015): The Foundation
This film introduces Kate Macer, an idealistic FBI agent recruited by Matt Graver, a mysterious government operative, to join a task force targeting a powerful drug cartel. She is thrust into a world of moral compromises and brutal tactics, questioning the very nature of justice and the boundaries of law enforcement. The film ends with Kate’s forced acquiescence to the system, leaving a lingering sense of disillusionment.
Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018): Escalation and Moral Ambiguity
This sequel sees Matt Graver and Alejandro Gillick tasked with inciting a war between rival cartels. The story shifts its focus from Kate Macer’s perspective to the increasingly complex relationship between Graver and Gillick, and their unexpected connection with a young deaf girl. The film delves deeper into the ruthless methods employed in the fight against drug trafficking, blurring the lines between good and evil.
Future of the Sicario Franchise: What’s Next?
Although discussions and rumors about a third installment, often tentatively titled Sicario: Capos, have circulated, there hasn’t been any official confirmation of the project’s progress. Actors and writers have expressed interest, but the project’s development status remains uncertain. The potential continuation hinges on finding the right story and aligning schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the correct order to watch the Sicario movies?
The Sicario films should be watched in chronological order of their release: First, Sicario (2015), followed by Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018). This order allows for the progressive development of the characters and the unfolding of the overarching narrative.
Is Sicario: Day of the Soldado a direct sequel to Sicario?
While Sicario: Day of the Soldado is a sequel to Sicario, it doesn’t directly continue Kate Macer’s storyline. The sequel primarily focuses on Matt Graver and Alejandro Gillick, exploring different aspects of the same conflict. Kate Macer does not appear in Day of the Soldado.
Who are the main characters in the Sicario movies?
The main characters across the two films include Kate Macer (played by Emily Blunt), Matt Graver (played by Josh Brolin), and Alejandro Gillick (played by Benicio del Toro). In Sicario: Day of the Soldado, Isabela Reyes (played by Isabela Moner) becomes a crucial character.
Will Emily Blunt be in Sicario 3?
As of now, there is no confirmation that Emily Blunt will return for a third Sicario film. She did not appear in Sicario: Day of the Soldado, and her involvement in a potential Sicario: Capos remains uncertain.
What is Sicario: Capos supposed to be about?
While details are scarce, rumors suggest Sicario: Capos would delve deeper into the cartel world, potentially focusing on the power struggles and internal conflicts within the “capos,” or leaders, of the drug trafficking organizations.
Who directed the Sicario movies?
Sicario (2015) was directed by the acclaimed Denis Villeneuve, known for his visually stunning and thematically rich films. Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018) was directed by Stefano Sollima.
Who wrote the Sicario movies?
Both Sicario and Sicario: Day of the Soldado were written by Taylor Sheridan, who has since become a prominent figure in neo-Western and crime thriller genres.
Are the Sicario movies based on a true story?
The Sicario movies are not based on a single true story, but rather draw inspiration from the realities of the war on drugs along the US-Mexico border. They reflect the complex issues, ethical dilemmas, and brutal tactics employed in this ongoing conflict.
What does “Sicario” mean?
The word “sicario” is Spanish for hitman or assassin. The film’s title reflects the morally ambiguous nature of the characters and the violent world they inhabit.
Is there a lot of violence in the Sicario movies?
Yes, both Sicario films contain a significant amount of violence and graphic content. They are intended for mature audiences and are not suitable for younger viewers. The violence serves to depict the harsh realities of the war on drugs.
Where were the Sicario movies filmed?
Sicario was primarily filmed in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Ciudad Juárez, Mexico. Sicario: Day of the Soldado was also filmed in New Mexico, as well as in Mexico City.
What are some similar movies to Sicario?
If you enjoyed the Sicario movies, you might also like films such as Traffic, Zero Dark Thirty, End of Watch, and Prisoners. These films explore similar themes of crime, law enforcement, and moral ambiguity. They often feature intense action sequences and complex characters.